After a halt in sporting activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic that started in Wuhan and rapidly spread worldwide, professional sports looks set to finally get back up and running in the United States. Fans of football, namely the women's game will certainly be excited with the return of the NWSL as the 2020 Challenge Cup, which will be the curtain-raiser to the 2020 NWSL season.
Here's all you need to know ahead of the upcoming tournament.
When does the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup begin?
The 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup will take place from June 27 to July 26, 2020. A total of 25 games will be played over the course of the competition.
Are there any restrictions at the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup due to COVID-19?
Yes. For starters, the entire tournament will be played behind closed doors. In addition, all players, staff, and other key personnel will be tested for COVID-19 48 hours before leaving for Utah and regularly be monitored and tested throughout the tournament. Furthermore, all teams participating will be quarantined for the entire duration of the event in a specially designated "NWSL village".
What teams are featuring in the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup?
Nine teams will be featuring in the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup. They are:
- Chicago Red Stars
- Houston Dash
- North Carolina Courage
- OL Reign
- Orlando Pride
- Portland Thorns FC
- Sky Blue FC
- Utah Royals FC
- Washington Spirit
Where will the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup be taking place?
The 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup will be taking place in Utah, at Zions Bank Stadium (for the earlier matches) and Rio Tinto Stadium (for the semi-finals and final).
Where can I watch the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup?
CBS will show both the opening match and the final game of the 2020 NWSL Challenge for fans who are based in the USA or in Canada.
In addition, if you live in the USA or Canada, you can follow the tournament via CBS All-Access, which is a subscription-only service. Re-plays are available on CBS Sports Network.
Other fans who live outside the USA or Canada, so for instance, in the UK, Australia, France, Germany, Korea or another international location can live-stream the entire tournament on Twitch.
What is the schedule for the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup?
Below is the schedule for the first nine matchdays of the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup, which runs from June 27 to July 13:
